Monash University, Australia
Database Design Studio is currently being used as the prescribed software for students
at Monash University
(GSCIT)
Australia in their DBMS-related subjects.
Words from a Database Lecturer ...
We are currently using DDS in our teaching program, particularly in three subjects:
- GCO2815 Database Management Systems, which is a second year undergraduate
computing degree compulsory subject,
- GCO3823 Client Server and Mobile Database Applications, a third year
undergraduate computing elective, and
- GCO3851/7831 - business oriented Database Management Systems subjects
taught within Monash University's Business degree
In GCO2815, DDS is being used to develop the concepts of Entity Relationship modelling,
the mapping of ER's to data structure diagrams and finally the creation of database
specific schema files for table creation. Students are supplied with a written case
study and model the situation using DDS as an ER, from which they use DDS to create
schema and load files for the database along with sample data for the load to operate
with. We are also using DDS's Java features for the creation of Java schema files and
as a working environment for creation/compilation and running of Java source file
against ODBC and Oracle databases using JDBC and Oracle's JSQL (Java embedded SQL)
as an introduction to embedded SQL programming.
With GCO3823, DDS is again used to create data models and appropriate schema and load
files for a Centura SQLBase database assignment and also for interaction with Oracle.
GCO3823 makes extensive use of JDBC and we have found DDS to be an excellent platform
within which students can develop their code.
The SQL Console in DDS provides an interface in which students can use DDS to interact
with the DDS created MS Access database, based on their ER diagram. This enables them
to experiment with, and learn, SQL.
The complete DDS package is very powerful, highly configurable and of great assistance
in our educational program. Further, given the financial constraints of students and
tertiary faculties DDS has the extra feature, against many similar CASE tools, of
being very moderately priced - it is thus excellent value for money. Students find
the package easy to use and a significant aid in understanding the fundamental process
of database design via ER's and subsequent database creation and loading. We have found
the staff at ChilliSource to be responsive to suggestions as to how the product may be
improved to assist our teaching program and equally helpful and responsive in dealing
with installation troubleshooting or advice.
Without reservation, I recommend this excellent product to fellow educational
professionals. If anyone would like to seek further examples or clarification of
our experiences I would be only too happy to respond to email contact.
Lindsay Smith
Computing Lecturer
Monash University
Email: Lindsay.Smith@infotech.monash.edu.au
September, 1998
CORPORATE CLIENTS
- Rock-Tenn Inc.
1. What are the features in DDS that makes it good to use?
It does similar function(s) as S-DESIGNOR and ERWIN at a great price.
All developers should have this tool !!
2. What DBMS/type application are you working on?
AS400 (ASCII), SQLServer and ACCESS
- Collins Informatik
1. What are the features in DDS that makes it good to use?
It is easy and intuitive to use. The best thing is the preparation of the
database create statement. So it is easy to test the ERD and also easy to
set up the new database if I had to change something.
Normally in development when realising the application, the developer
will find some faults in the data model. So he has to change the model, add some
fields and change some attributes. With DDS, he will do it in the model because
it is the easiest way to correct the database.
2. What DBMS/type application are you working on?
Borland/Delphi and Interbase
Using DDS on a client server project for a customer
RAVE REVIEWS
- The Digital Mage
1. What are the features in DDS that makes it good to use?
Ease of use. It dosn't take long to create a working schema.
The output looks good in print too.
2. Would you recommend DDS to others?
Definitely.
3. What other feature about DDS do you think is commendable?
Most things really. It is also value for money.
